#bemisbags

The merging of fashion and function has become ubiquitous. “Athleisure,” one of last year’s ‘hottest’ words, is used in conversations about outdoor apparel as often as it’s used to review runway shows. For seasons now, designers have turned to Sewfree solutions to create versatile, technically superior garments that tell an aesthetic story, too.

There is similar opportunity for handbag and accessories design. This week, Nida’s trendspotting highlights “luxe athleisure” — breathing new life into basics by balancing athletics and aesthetics. 

Some examples: 

Whether it’s Coach, Alexander Wang, or Stella McCartney’s wallets, sneakers, or bags, amping up detail, finishes, and fabrics can turn, say, a knapsack into a coveted accessory. Similarly, a certain amount of playfulness can make a traditionally luxury item more accessible and day-to-day. 

Of course, we wanted to lend our brainpower to the mix, so here’s our Sewfree application: a molded panel. 

Similar to the 3d bonded logo, this application adds visual depth, but it also adds function. Consider this on the bottom panel of a pack, for example. 

Not only does it allow for customized surface detailing, it also adds abrasion and water-resistance.